Read You Tell Me: How Do You Deal With the "Am-I-Crazies?"
Perfect summary of what I was discussing three posts earlier, under "Turning a New Leaf."
Here's my answer to the "Am-I-Crazies?" question:
I don't deal with it well at all. Which is why I had to post "Turning a New Leaf."
But hey, at least I'm not the only one!
Forget arthritis, this is authoritis! :) OK, I'm going to have to share that...
I did find a little solution. Of course, not the best, but better than nothing. I can always put up a website and post my novels/writing works up there for FREE! At least people will still get to read my stories even if I'm not getting paid. And that isn't so bad...
Friday, July 31, 2009
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
What to Watch...
(500) Days of Summer!
Isn't it just the best?
People said it was good, but it was actually even better than I thought it would be.
It's such a touching story and very well made.
Loved it!
Best movie I've seen in a long time.
Isn't it just the best?
People said it was good, but it was actually even better than I thought it would be.
It's such a touching story and very well made.
Loved it!
Best movie I've seen in a long time.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Jonathan Brandis
A young Jonathan BrandisThe Saved by the Bell: The College Years Thanksgiving episode just came on. Aww, Jonathan Brandis guest starred. And now I am sad!
He was my first celebrity crush. Because of him, I subscribed to Teen Bop. I bought (or my mom, rather) every Jonathan Brandis product out there. My friends and I would sing his name in harmony (no joke). When Leonardo Dicaprio first came out, we thought he looked like a melted Jonathan Brandis. How time can change careers.
It was so shocking to find out about his death. He was only 27.
He still looked good in the episode (actually better than I remembered). I found a clip here.
He looks like a young Christian Bale, no? And sounds like him too! Or maybe a real-life Howl from Howl's Moving Castle. The pictures don't do him justice. Aww, he's still very cute in my eyes.
Turning a new leaf
It's going to be hard, but I'm going to try to learn to relax.
Anyone who knows me can say that I get pretty into my hobbies. Like take-over-my-life-and-do-nothing-else into them.
Luckily, by now, I have finally learned to weed out the temporary passions with the real ones. But that doesn't mean I'm not still tempted to pick up something new and get extremely into it. But the urge is getting less, thankfully. Otherwise, I'd never have any time.
One of my main hobbies is writing. I've been writing stories pretty much my whole life, but I drifted away from it during my teen years. I started again in college, but after being away so long, my skills were just not there. However, the past two years, I have been pretty dedicated to improving my writing and reading as much as time allows me to. This has become much more than a hobby/passion. I am really dedicated to making it work. No matter how much of a dream it is, I'm going to stick to it because I think it's possible. I don't believe I'm reaching for a unrealistic dream (an unlikely one yes, just by pure numbers), but not an unrealistic one. I am not trying to be an actress or a singer, which I obviously don't have the skill set for. But I do believe there is a writer in me. And though I may not be good at many things, I know my strongest asset is creativity and imagination. That I know I have.
But writing has been torturing me slowly for a long time. I've had passions, but I've never had such focused goals before. Trying to become a published author has been pretty horrible, sometimes I don't even know if I'm happy. Like, I still love writing to death, but the whole process is so consuming. There is honestly not a second when I'm not thinking of another story, a new idea, developing a character or a scene. Even when I'm reading other books and watching movies, I am still thinking! I think in the shower, while I sleep, in the car, at work, even when I'm talking to other people. It's pretty insane. I once read that it's not worth it to give up EVERYTHING to write, have it take over your life to the point where your life is unbalanced. And that is honestly where I'm headed.
I also read on Nathan Bransford's (famous literary agent) blog to not play the "if" game. Because if you do, then that might be a clue to stop writing. It basically goes like this: If I got an agent, I'd be happy. If I got published, I'd be happy. If I sold x amount of copies, I'd be happy. Basically, letting your happiness rely on some action that may or may not ever happen. But you want it so badly, it just takes over your life. It also doesn't help reading all the millions of published authors and their inspiring (often lucky!) story on how they became published. For some, it's a cakewalk! A perfect, dream-come-true, easy journey. And others have written for ten years before their first novel was published. It's a crapshoot.
But I've decided no more! I will not let writing torment me any longer. I am going to do what I love and enjoy it and if it happens, then it happens. If not, oh well, at least I will still have the rest of my life to be thankful for.
That is what I need to do.
Anyone who knows me can say that I get pretty into my hobbies. Like take-over-my-life-and-do-nothing-else into them.
Luckily, by now, I have finally learned to weed out the temporary passions with the real ones. But that doesn't mean I'm not still tempted to pick up something new and get extremely into it. But the urge is getting less, thankfully. Otherwise, I'd never have any time.
One of my main hobbies is writing. I've been writing stories pretty much my whole life, but I drifted away from it during my teen years. I started again in college, but after being away so long, my skills were just not there. However, the past two years, I have been pretty dedicated to improving my writing and reading as much as time allows me to. This has become much more than a hobby/passion. I am really dedicated to making it work. No matter how much of a dream it is, I'm going to stick to it because I think it's possible. I don't believe I'm reaching for a unrealistic dream (an unlikely one yes, just by pure numbers), but not an unrealistic one. I am not trying to be an actress or a singer, which I obviously don't have the skill set for. But I do believe there is a writer in me. And though I may not be good at many things, I know my strongest asset is creativity and imagination. That I know I have.
But writing has been torturing me slowly for a long time. I've had passions, but I've never had such focused goals before. Trying to become a published author has been pretty horrible, sometimes I don't even know if I'm happy. Like, I still love writing to death, but the whole process is so consuming. There is honestly not a second when I'm not thinking of another story, a new idea, developing a character or a scene. Even when I'm reading other books and watching movies, I am still thinking! I think in the shower, while I sleep, in the car, at work, even when I'm talking to other people. It's pretty insane. I once read that it's not worth it to give up EVERYTHING to write, have it take over your life to the point where your life is unbalanced. And that is honestly where I'm headed.
I also read on Nathan Bransford's (famous literary agent) blog to not play the "if" game. Because if you do, then that might be a clue to stop writing. It basically goes like this: If I got an agent, I'd be happy. If I got published, I'd be happy. If I sold x amount of copies, I'd be happy. Basically, letting your happiness rely on some action that may or may not ever happen. But you want it so badly, it just takes over your life. It also doesn't help reading all the millions of published authors and their inspiring (often lucky!) story on how they became published. For some, it's a cakewalk! A perfect, dream-come-true, easy journey. And others have written for ten years before their first novel was published. It's a crapshoot.
But I've decided no more! I will not let writing torment me any longer. I am going to do what I love and enjoy it and if it happens, then it happens. If not, oh well, at least I will still have the rest of my life to be thankful for.
That is what I need to do.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
What to Watch... What to Not
WHAT TO WATCH...
Hooray for THE HANGOVER.
By now, you've probably already seen the movie or heard about how good it is.
I have to admit, when I first saw the trailer, I thought the movie seemed lame. Like an idea WAY overdone.
But of course, after hearing the great reviews, I went to watch it and I'm not disappointed.
I think the best part of the movie is the acting. They really reacted to situations like how I think real people (like my friends) would have reacted!
And also, I thought it was cool that the main characters were older. Not in high school or college, not like a Road Trip-type movie.
And Bradley Cooper doesn't look too bad in a suit.
...WHAT TO NOT
Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince.
Oh no, people are going to hate me for saying this, but I just thought the movie was long and boring. I couldn't wait for it to be over.
And I'm surprised I feel this way. Everyone always says, "The book is way better," whenever they watch a movie adaptation, but Harry Potter was the one series I actually thought was better on film. Why? Because you get to see all the little whimsical elements instead of imagining them. But by the six installment, those little whimsical elements just aren't surprising anymore and get a bit old.
And the movie was quite long, but how much actually happened? Not much. Even the ending climax was a bit disappointing. For some reason, when I read the book, it didn't feel that way at all. But when you actually see on film how little action there is to move the story along, it really drags on.
But I do have to say that I enjoyed the book quite a lot. So maybe it's back to "the book is way better" for this one.
Hooray for THE HANGOVER.
By now, you've probably already seen the movie or heard about how good it is.
I have to admit, when I first saw the trailer, I thought the movie seemed lame. Like an idea WAY overdone.
But of course, after hearing the great reviews, I went to watch it and I'm not disappointed.
I think the best part of the movie is the acting. They really reacted to situations like how I think real people (like my friends) would have reacted!
And also, I thought it was cool that the main characters were older. Not in high school or college, not like a Road Trip-type movie.
And Bradley Cooper doesn't look too bad in a suit.
...WHAT TO NOT
Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince.
Oh no, people are going to hate me for saying this, but I just thought the movie was long and boring. I couldn't wait for it to be over.
And I'm surprised I feel this way. Everyone always says, "The book is way better," whenever they watch a movie adaptation, but Harry Potter was the one series I actually thought was better on film. Why? Because you get to see all the little whimsical elements instead of imagining them. But by the six installment, those little whimsical elements just aren't surprising anymore and get a bit old.
And the movie was quite long, but how much actually happened? Not much. Even the ending climax was a bit disappointing. For some reason, when I read the book, it didn't feel that way at all. But when you actually see on film how little action there is to move the story along, it really drags on.
But I do have to say that I enjoyed the book quite a lot. So maybe it's back to "the book is way better" for this one.
Watchmen
So Watchmen is out on DVD. I'd have to say the Amazon Exclusive Director's Cut version is pretty cute. It comes with a Nite Owl ship DVD case! Awww *pet pet*
Anyway, I know people didn't really like the movie. And I guess I'm going to have to agree. After reading the graphic novel, I wasn't really sure how well it would translate to film. But to be honest, the movie DID stick pretty damn close to the novel (except the end, which I thought was a good move). Perhaps, as some critics believe, a little too much. So I can't say I totally hated the movie because they did a good job staying true. But like many novels turned into films, perhaps it was always best for the story to stay on paper.
Anyway, I do have a point and it's this: read the graphic novel. The novel is really good. I don't want people to be turned off by it just because the movie wasn't the best. And I know the ending is a little WTF, but I think the story isn't really the main focus. It's more just a vessel to show what the novel is truly about--the characters and their history. And Watchmen has some amazing, complex characters! My favorite. Perhaps I need to broaden my literary horizon, but in my opinion, Watchmen has a few of the most well-constructed characters I have ever read about (I wasn't too crazy about the young Nite Owl and Silk Spectre II, but the rest... :).
So if you haven't already, give it a chance and read it. You will see how much more Rorschach comes to life!
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Old, new, or inbetween, 5 songs I can't stop playing
Hmm, I've noticed I always post in chunks. There'll be no posts and bam! I'll post like 3 in a row.
Oh well.
This week, my music is all about girls girls girls and girls! Some people on the list (especially Demi Lovato and Miley Cyrus) might not really float people's boats. But I honestly like their songs. I know, it's like the equivalent of listening to a song from New Kids On the Block. But I think people should learn to move passed the lameness or whatever bad impressions they have about the artist and just enjoy the music. Cause once you get over it, it's actually pretty good.
I am going to do a block party and then some.
1) "You Picked Me" - A Fine Frenzy
I went back and forth for a year deciding whether or not to buy this album. I just wasn't sure, but I kept coming back and listening to 30 second samples. Finally, I took the plunge and bought it and I don't regret it at all. The whole album is REALLY good, but this song is one of my favorites. She's so young and talented! Which means I automatically have to hate on her. HAHAHA jk. I don't have that for musicians, only for authors. LOL.
2) "Rangers" - A Fine Frenzy
Another great song by Alison Sudol.
3) "Sick Muse" - Metric
I admit--I'm late riding on the Metric train. It seems they've been out for awhile, but I never knew who they were until their latest album. But I like them! They're songs are quite catchy and I like their arrangements. I'd say they're like Silversun Pickups and Yeah Yeah Yeahs combined.
4) "Satellite Mind" - Metric
Another catchy song.
5) "Every Part of Me" - Hannah Montana/Miley Cyrus
Okay, here we go. The "lame" part. But honestly, this song is good! Give it a chance to touch your heart!
6) "Don't Wanna Be Torn" - Hannah Montana/Miley Cyrus
Same thing here.
7) "Here We Go Again" - Demi Lovato
I really love Demi Lovato's voice. This girl can sing! And I like the song. I believe if this song was re-sung by Kelly Clarkson, it would be a big hit. So let's not discriminate just because she started her career on Camp Rock.
Oh well.
This week, my music is all about girls girls girls and girls! Some people on the list (especially Demi Lovato and Miley Cyrus) might not really float people's boats. But I honestly like their songs. I know, it's like the equivalent of listening to a song from New Kids On the Block. But I think people should learn to move passed the lameness or whatever bad impressions they have about the artist and just enjoy the music. Cause once you get over it, it's actually pretty good.
I am going to do a block party and then some.
1) "You Picked Me" - A Fine Frenzy
I went back and forth for a year deciding whether or not to buy this album. I just wasn't sure, but I kept coming back and listening to 30 second samples. Finally, I took the plunge and bought it and I don't regret it at all. The whole album is REALLY good, but this song is one of my favorites. She's so young and talented! Which means I automatically have to hate on her. HAHAHA jk. I don't have that for musicians, only for authors. LOL.
2) "Rangers" - A Fine Frenzy
Another great song by Alison Sudol.
3) "Sick Muse" - Metric
I admit--I'm late riding on the Metric train. It seems they've been out for awhile, but I never knew who they were until their latest album. But I like them! They're songs are quite catchy and I like their arrangements. I'd say they're like Silversun Pickups and Yeah Yeah Yeahs combined.
4) "Satellite Mind" - Metric
Another catchy song.
5) "Every Part of Me" - Hannah Montana/Miley Cyrus
Okay, here we go. The "lame" part. But honestly, this song is good! Give it a chance to touch your heart!
6) "Don't Wanna Be Torn" - Hannah Montana/Miley Cyrus
Same thing here.
7) "Here We Go Again" - Demi Lovato
I really love Demi Lovato's voice. This girl can sing! And I like the song. I believe if this song was re-sung by Kelly Clarkson, it would be a big hit. So let's not discriminate just because she started her career on Camp Rock.
Breaking down America's Got Talent
Have you noticed a little pattern with America's Got Talent?
The first person at the audition ALWAYS sucks.
Then, it's followed by a few more people that suck.
So by the time they actually show someone with talent, it's that much more impressive.
And of course, it always ends on a good note with a tearful story and a talented person.
Watch it next time. Trust me, this will be the pattern. But hey, it works. I especially liked the tap dancer and guitar duo!
The first person at the audition ALWAYS sucks.
Then, it's followed by a few more people that suck.
So by the time they actually show someone with talent, it's that much more impressive.
And of course, it always ends on a good note with a tearful story and a talented person.
Watch it next time. Trust me, this will be the pattern. But hey, it works. I especially liked the tap dancer and guitar duo!
What you should be reading if you don't already
Entertainment Weekly!
It has moved up to my #1 favorite magazine to read in the bathroom. I would read it normally too, of course, but I always like a "light" read in there so I save it for that occasion.
My mom subscribed to it before I did and to be honest, I don't know why, but I didn't like it that much at first. Probably because I didn't fully understand the type of magazine it was and didn't give the articles a chance. But now, I absolutely love it and here's why:
Sure, there are a few interviews with celebrities and blah blah blah, but it mainly focuses on behind the scenes aspects and that's why I love it. It gives you a different view of entertainment; not the glitz and glamour, but the fears and hopes. Not to mention the hows and whys (e.g., "How did this movie end up doing so well?" "Why did they push the release date of this movie back six months?) and the ifs, whens, and buts (e.g., "Is there going to be a sequel to this movie? And if so, does the production company believe the movie will do well?").
It's a magazine I've genuinely learned to appreciate. Most of the articles are more about the directors, screenwriters, and marketing of movies than about the celebrities which star in them. Several book and music reviews are thrown in as well. And the articles are really well written (funny, smart, good insight) with contributions even from Stephen King and Diablo Cody. It's not often you find a magazine with content that truly lives up to its' title, but EW does just that--entertainment in small, weekly doses.
Monday, July 13, 2009
LXD
Don't worry, it's not that horrible movie with Sean Connery.
It's something much worse! The Legion of Extraordinary Dancers.
I'm j/k. Despite the lame name, the trailer actually seems interesting. I like dancers, so I can definitely appreciate the concept. I especially like the warehouse scene. That guy can do some crazy sheeze!
It's something much worse! The Legion of Extraordinary Dancers.
I'm j/k. Despite the lame name, the trailer actually seems interesting. I like dancers, so I can definitely appreciate the concept. I especially like the warehouse scene. That guy can do some crazy sheeze!
Twilighters can hate me
I'm sorry, but R. Patz has a horrible body!
Yes, this is Edward Cullen! I know I'm not one to talk, but since I'm not the one who's famous...
Look at the skinny arm! And narrow shoulders.
It's true ladies and gentlemen, R. Patz is actually a flat tube masquerading as a human! LOL
Yes, this is Edward Cullen! I know I'm not one to talk, but since I'm not the one who's famous...
Look at the skinny arm! And narrow shoulders.
It's true ladies and gentlemen, R. Patz is actually a flat tube masquerading as a human! LOL
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Wild wild west vs. Far far east--Cellphone showdown
One thing I miss about living in Japan--cellphones!
I had the coolest cell phone while living there. But, I didn't have many people to call. So I guess it was pointless, but still...
I'm long overdue for a new cell phone. I'm still using the Motorola Razr! Not to mention it's super ugly because I glued all these rhinestones on it. But when I scanned the AT&T website for options, besides the iphone and blackberry, all the cell phones suck. And I don't know if I'll need an iphone or blackberry. Why can't there be more awesome cell phones that are merely phones instead of mini computers?
So just to torture myself (ahh, typical of me), I went on my long lost love's website--Docomo. Docomo is my personal favorite cell phone manufacturer/provider in Japan. There might be more now, but when I was living there, there were only three--AU, J phone, and Docomo. AU was the cheapest, J phone was sort of in the middle, and Docomo was the most expensive, but had the best phones. And Docomo did not disappoint.
Let's make a little east vs. west comparison, shall we?
I had the coolest cell phone while living there. But, I didn't have many people to call. So I guess it was pointless, but still...
I'm long overdue for a new cell phone. I'm still using the Motorola Razr! Not to mention it's super ugly because I glued all these rhinestones on it. But when I scanned the AT&T website for options, besides the iphone and blackberry, all the cell phones suck. And I don't know if I'll need an iphone or blackberry. Why can't there be more awesome cell phones that are merely phones instead of mini computers?
So just to torture myself (ahh, typical of me), I went on my long lost love's website--Docomo. Docomo is my personal favorite cell phone manufacturer/provider in Japan. There might be more now, but when I was living there, there were only three--AU, J phone, and Docomo. AU was the cheapest, J phone was sort of in the middle, and Docomo was the most expensive, but had the best phones. And Docomo did not disappoint.
Let's make a little east vs. west comparison, shall we?
In this corner, we have the Far Far East (Japan)
Talk about sleek designs!
And in this corner, we have the Wild Wild West (USA)
Talk about sleek designs!
And in this corner, we have the Wild Wild West (USA)
Hahaha, OKAY, I know there are better cell phones in America than Zach Morris' Saved by the Bell phone. But, seriously, even still, there is no comparison!
WINNER by knock out - Far Far East!
Is a nice phone in the states just too much to ask for?
Ever wonder what hell is like?
Well, I've been there so I'll save you the trip:
The devil makes everyone do accounting problems.
And physics problems, according to Eddie Kim.
:)
Now you know.
So be good. Otherwise, this may be your fate for eternity!
The devil makes everyone do accounting problems.
And physics problems, according to Eddie Kim.
:)
Now you know.
So be good. Otherwise, this may be your fate for eternity!
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Pop stars--A dying breed
Michael Jackson (looking somewhat normal)Unless you're a die hard fan, I'm like most people--not sad that MJ died, but shocked. MJ has been around for a long time. And for me, he's been around since I was born and was possibly the first celebrity I recognized, which makes it weird to know that he's gone. Of course, I knew he would die at one point, but I guess celebrities seem so distant and out of reach that I never think about their deaths until it happens.
But what I'm even more sad about is what MJ represented. A pop star of MJ's calibur is a dying breed and it saddens me. With increasingly diverse music genres and subgenres, there may never be another Elvis or Michael Jackson again. And once Madonna's gone, will any singer really be a household name?
Come to think of it, the 80's was possibly the last decade which had a distinct style of music and clothing. I can't really narrow down the way we dress now or in the 90's to such distinct elements as the 80's--neon, tights, jean jackets, big (and horrible) hair... It's great that fashion and music are branching off and people applaud uniqueness a lot more than they did in the past, but it's still a bit sad to know there may never be such a huge star again.
Sorry Kanye!
But what I'm even more sad about is what MJ represented. A pop star of MJ's calibur is a dying breed and it saddens me. With increasingly diverse music genres and subgenres, there may never be another Elvis or Michael Jackson again. And once Madonna's gone, will any singer really be a household name?
Come to think of it, the 80's was possibly the last decade which had a distinct style of music and clothing. I can't really narrow down the way we dress now or in the 90's to such distinct elements as the 80's--neon, tights, jean jackets, big (and horrible) hair... It's great that fashion and music are branching off and people applaud uniqueness a lot more than they did in the past, but it's still a bit sad to know there may never be such a huge star again.
Sorry Kanye!
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Since I'm up late...
Thought I should post this! Super cute, super creative cardboard Transformers!
Also, I noticed when people are up late, they're more inclined to impulsively buy crap. And I am guilty as charged. I just bought a six foot tall Optimus Prime cardboard cutout... Yeah, I hate myself sometimes. *shrug* But at least it will make a nice addition to my home decorations... sort of. Hahaha, I just wanted it so bad, I couldn't help it. There's no reason, really, and as author Claudia Gray says, "Sometimes [that] is actually the best reason to do things."
Also, I noticed when people are up late, they're more inclined to impulsively buy crap. And I am guilty as charged. I just bought a six foot tall Optimus Prime cardboard cutout... Yeah, I hate myself sometimes. *shrug* But at least it will make a nice addition to my home decorations... sort of. Hahaha, I just wanted it so bad, I couldn't help it. There's no reason, really, and as author Claudia Gray says, "Sometimes [that] is actually the best reason to do things."
Old, new, or inbetween, 5 songs I can't stop playing
This week, a tribute to the beautiful soundtracks which make our favorite movies and video games THAT much more enjoyable.
1) "Howl's Moving Castle Theme" - Joe Hisaishi
I just love, LOVE this song! There are so many reprises throughout the movie that the song takes on many different emotions. Sometimes, it can seem happy, other times bittersweet, and I don't know how, but it can even convey the feeling of loneliness. Great song.
2) "Arrival to Earth" - Steve Jablonsky
Another reason to like Transformers the movie--the awesome soundtrack! Or I should say the score, not the soundtrack. The soundtrack's mediocre at best, but the score is so good! It's been dominating my ipod all week. I also strongly recommend "Infinite White," which wasn't on playlist.com.
3) "Kiki's Special Delivery Service Theme" - Joe Hisaishi and possibly Sydney Forest
I don't know the name of this song because it's in Japanese, but I know it's the theme song from Kiki's Special Delivery and it's not "Town Where You Can See the Ocean," which is another great song from the soundtrack. This song just makes me so happy, I don't think I could ever be sad when I listen to it. It's a bit silly, but when I first moved to Japan and was adjusting, this song somehow made me feel that everything was going to be okay.
4) "To Zanarkand" - Nobuo Uematsu
Ahh, the popular song from Final Fantasy X. It really is one of my favorite all-piano songs and I think it captured the part where all the characters are sitting around a bonfire quite well.
5) "Dearly Beloved" - Kaoru Wada & Yoko Shimomura
This song is sooo good. I fell in love with it from the second I heard the simpler version from Kingdon Hearts I, but I'm glad they made a more complex version for II. This song proves that a melody can be super simple and still be so beautiful! What does it have, like 6 unique notes altogether? But if it doesn't bring a tear to your eye, I'm shocked!
1) "Howl's Moving Castle Theme" - Joe Hisaishi
I just love, LOVE this song! There are so many reprises throughout the movie that the song takes on many different emotions. Sometimes, it can seem happy, other times bittersweet, and I don't know how, but it can even convey the feeling of loneliness. Great song.
2) "Arrival to Earth" - Steve Jablonsky
Another reason to like Transformers the movie--the awesome soundtrack! Or I should say the score, not the soundtrack. The soundtrack's mediocre at best, but the score is so good! It's been dominating my ipod all week. I also strongly recommend "Infinite White," which wasn't on playlist.com.
3) "Kiki's Special Delivery Service Theme" - Joe Hisaishi and possibly Sydney Forest
I don't know the name of this song because it's in Japanese, but I know it's the theme song from Kiki's Special Delivery and it's not "Town Where You Can See the Ocean," which is another great song from the soundtrack. This song just makes me so happy, I don't think I could ever be sad when I listen to it. It's a bit silly, but when I first moved to Japan and was adjusting, this song somehow made me feel that everything was going to be okay.
4) "To Zanarkand" - Nobuo Uematsu
Ahh, the popular song from Final Fantasy X. It really is one of my favorite all-piano songs and I think it captured the part where all the characters are sitting around a bonfire quite well.
5) "Dearly Beloved" - Kaoru Wada & Yoko Shimomura
This song is sooo good. I fell in love with it from the second I heard the simpler version from Kingdon Hearts I, but I'm glad they made a more complex version for II. This song proves that a melody can be super simple and still be so beautiful! What does it have, like 6 unique notes altogether? But if it doesn't bring a tear to your eye, I'm shocked!
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Mood: FRUSTRATED
Today, I just feel like venting.
Normally, I try to post content that has some significance, but not today.
I am a pot of water that has finally reached its boiling point.
I'm tired--very tired. And have been for the past 3 years of my life, maybe even more... Ever since the dreaded day I decided to study for the GMAT and go to grad school. What a stupid idea!
The thing is, grad school usually only includes 10 classes or so. But not for me! Because my dumb ass graduated from a college in Japan with an International Business and Econ degree, grad school was like getting my bachelor's degree all over again since I didn't have any of the prerequisites to take the higher level accounting courses. This fact = NOT FUN.
So, I had to cram tons of classes into each semester. My busiest semester, I took 5 classes while working. That was hell. And overall, I don't like driving an hour after work several times a week to sit through a 3 hour class. And all the homework! Plus the added pressure of the 3.0 average!
But the second I decided to drop out (yeah, 3 years down the toilet), I started studying for my CPA exam. Which is the worst ever. I have completely given up everything in my life for this stupid exam. I study all day and all night, while the housework (laundry, etc.) just keeps piling higher and higher. And the second I took one section, it was tax season at work, which we all know is hell for about two and a half months. Then the very next day (April 16th), I started studying for the other sections. I have 2 sections coming up in July and I have so little time to study, I really need to cram, even more than before.
Sometimes, like today, I just feel so tired. My life has been in complete imbalance for several years now. I barely ever take a trip anywhere or have a vacation. I think the last time I went anywhere was like 2 1/2 years ago. And I barely go out and see my friends anymore. I can count with my fingers the number of times I've gone out socially in the past 7 months. Some of my friendships have definitely suffered because of this.
Not to mention, I've spent the past year writing my stupid book which I still have to finish revising. It's what I really want to do, but the time I have to work on it is so little because all this accounting stuff comes first. And that frustrates me... The chances of getting published are already really slim, but most of the time, authors write full time. Which means I am working VERY slow and from experience, every idea anyone has thought of has already been thought by someone else. I'm just worried that by the time I'm finally done, someone will already have written the same book. I look at other authors and they pop out books like no tomorrow.
And I have almost completely abandoned my other passion--music. I haven't worked on any songs FOREVER or written any new ones. And if things keep going the way they are now, it will be a long time until I will have time to.
On top of that, I have several personal problems going on right now that are just adding to the stress.
I feel like I'm locked in a cage, like a kid who's been grounded, glaring out the window to catch a glimpse of the world--so full of life--moving on without him. Everyone seems to be having such a great summer, but not me--I can only stare at all the things I want to do, but study instead.
Life can suck.
Normally, I try to post content that has some significance, but not today.
I am a pot of water that has finally reached its boiling point.
I'm tired--very tired. And have been for the past 3 years of my life, maybe even more... Ever since the dreaded day I decided to study for the GMAT and go to grad school. What a stupid idea!
The thing is, grad school usually only includes 10 classes or so. But not for me! Because my dumb ass graduated from a college in Japan with an International Business and Econ degree, grad school was like getting my bachelor's degree all over again since I didn't have any of the prerequisites to take the higher level accounting courses. This fact = NOT FUN.
So, I had to cram tons of classes into each semester. My busiest semester, I took 5 classes while working. That was hell. And overall, I don't like driving an hour after work several times a week to sit through a 3 hour class. And all the homework! Plus the added pressure of the 3.0 average!
But the second I decided to drop out (yeah, 3 years down the toilet), I started studying for my CPA exam. Which is the worst ever. I have completely given up everything in my life for this stupid exam. I study all day and all night, while the housework (laundry, etc.) just keeps piling higher and higher. And the second I took one section, it was tax season at work, which we all know is hell for about two and a half months. Then the very next day (April 16th), I started studying for the other sections. I have 2 sections coming up in July and I have so little time to study, I really need to cram, even more than before.
Sometimes, like today, I just feel so tired. My life has been in complete imbalance for several years now. I barely ever take a trip anywhere or have a vacation. I think the last time I went anywhere was like 2 1/2 years ago. And I barely go out and see my friends anymore. I can count with my fingers the number of times I've gone out socially in the past 7 months. Some of my friendships have definitely suffered because of this.
Not to mention, I've spent the past year writing my stupid book which I still have to finish revising. It's what I really want to do, but the time I have to work on it is so little because all this accounting stuff comes first. And that frustrates me... The chances of getting published are already really slim, but most of the time, authors write full time. Which means I am working VERY slow and from experience, every idea anyone has thought of has already been thought by someone else. I'm just worried that by the time I'm finally done, someone will already have written the same book. I look at other authors and they pop out books like no tomorrow.
And I have almost completely abandoned my other passion--music. I haven't worked on any songs FOREVER or written any new ones. And if things keep going the way they are now, it will be a long time until I will have time to.
On top of that, I have several personal problems going on right now that are just adding to the stress.
I feel like I'm locked in a cage, like a kid who's been grounded, glaring out the window to catch a glimpse of the world--so full of life--moving on without him. Everyone seems to be having such a great summer, but not me--I can only stare at all the things I want to do, but study instead.
Life can suck.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
What to Watch... What to Not
Ahh, it's been awhile since I've done a "What to Watch... What to Not." I've just been so busy studying that I haven't had time to sneak out to the movies like I normally do. But I finally have two summer movies to review.
WHAT TO WATCH...
Definitely, definitely Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.
WHAT TO WATCH...
Definitely, definitely Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.
I know there are a lot of bad reviews circulating on the net about Transformers II. But here's the thing: I think the critics/reviewers are idiots because they are judging the movie based on standards that do not apply to this particular franchise.
Everywhere I look, people criticize the plot and the acting. Of course, I'd have to agree that it's not the best, but what are people expecting? The Shawshank Redemption? It's a typical summer blockbuster--weak on plot, but lots of action and nice CG. Isn't that what makes a blockbuster entertaining?
I think people compare it to the first movie too much, which was a little more put together in terms of storyline and character development (Oh yeah, that was another complaint--lack of character development in #2. Who cares? We just want to see robots beat each other up), but I think the only reason Transformers #1 had a better screenplay was because the movie had a much lower budget (I assume, this is not confirmed). They had to satisfy the audience in another way since the robot air time was A LOT less than #2 due to lack of capital.
The bottom line is, giant robots vs. giant robots = awesome! And in that aspect, #2 kills #1. Lots of giant robots fighting, very entertaining! Also, I think Opti P. (hee hee) and Bumblebee got some crazy kung-fu lessons or something because they kick WAY more ass in the second one than the first. And I likes!
I can't wait until the DVD comes out. Then I can skip all the b.s. and just watch the fight scenes.
On repeat.
...WHAT TO NOT
I'm sorry to say, but Up did not impress me.
Everywhere I look, people criticize the plot and the acting. Of course, I'd have to agree that it's not the best, but what are people expecting? The Shawshank Redemption? It's a typical summer blockbuster--weak on plot, but lots of action and nice CG. Isn't that what makes a blockbuster entertaining?
I think people compare it to the first movie too much, which was a little more put together in terms of storyline and character development (Oh yeah, that was another complaint--lack of character development in #2. Who cares? We just want to see robots beat each other up), but I think the only reason Transformers #1 had a better screenplay was because the movie had a much lower budget (I assume, this is not confirmed). They had to satisfy the audience in another way since the robot air time was A LOT less than #2 due to lack of capital.
The bottom line is, giant robots vs. giant robots = awesome! And in that aspect, #2 kills #1. Lots of giant robots fighting, very entertaining! Also, I think Opti P. (hee hee) and Bumblebee got some crazy kung-fu lessons or something because they kick WAY more ass in the second one than the first. And I likes!
I can't wait until the DVD comes out. Then I can skip all the b.s. and just watch the fight scenes.
On repeat.
...WHAT TO NOT
I'm sorry to say, but Up did not impress me.
I know all the critics/reviewers are raving about this one, but I just didn't think it was that great. I did like the touching moments about the main character and his wife--that was sad--but besides that, it was mediocre at best. There were funny parts, but not even that many compared to other animated movies. I think they could have also been more creative with the plot. I mean, this man has a house that can float! He can go anywhere, live through any adventure! But instead they only meet one weird creature along the way and spend the rest of the time battling dogs and another old man. Not much even happens in the movie, resulting in a story with a disappointing climax and an even more disappointing build up.
I'm a bit disappointed in the animated films lately--Meet the Robinsons, Wall-E, Up... Let's bring back Monsters, Inc.!
I'm a bit disappointed in the animated films lately--Meet the Robinsons, Wall-E, Up... Let's bring back Monsters, Inc.!
Fan Fiction
Once again, another dorky post.
I love fan fiction. It gives fans a chance to vent!
Back in high school, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that fan fiction existed. It gives fans the chance to make up their own realities (at least book realities) with characters already created, characters they love.
As for me, I rarely write a fan fic unless I'm pissed off. Usually it's because I want an ending to be different.
My first fan fic was about Final Fantasy VII. I was always an Aerith fan and was pissed when she died. Also, I didn't like that Cloud and Tifa got together instead. So, I wrote an alternate ending! One where Cloud was always in love with Aerith and they lived happily ever after with Tifa left in the dust. Nice!
Fast forward about 10 years and I've written a few more. I wrote "Love From Afar" about Laurie and Jo from Little Women. I read the book when I was little, but thought it was boring and didn't really understand what was so special about it. Then I read it again after I "grew up" (yikes, there are no adults after all) and really fell in love with it. It's definitely one of my favorite books, if not my favorite. What makes it good is that there are no gimmicks! It's just such a wonderful book about a family and their lives and relationships. Usually, I find those books boring. I like my books with a little mystery, magic, suspense, humor, or SOMETHING to keep me reading. My least favorite is actually drama/plain fiction. But the way Little Women is written is so spectacular. I guess because everyone can relate to Laurie and Jo. Their relationship is definitely the star in the novel.
So of course, like everyone else in the world, I was pissed when Laurie and Jo didn't get together in the end! They were made for each other! I haven't read Pride and Prejudice (or even the zombie version) and all those other great romantic novels, but I genuinely feel that Laurie and Jo's relationship is the most well-written, touching one of all. And so, it was time for me to play story God once again and change reality so I could sleep at night. Although, I do have to say that I like the fact they didn't end up together, otherwise readers would assume they lived happily ever after and never think about them again. This way, the frustration will haunt our thoughts forever. I think people like that in a strange, odd way.
So here is the fan fic for Laurie and Jo I posted on fanfiction.net. I wrote it really quickly in 2008 and I know the writing sucks. I should've taken more time with it and now I'm just too lazy to change it. But I like how I explained why they didn't end up together and I like the dialogue, which is what I tried to focus on the most. And best of all, Laurie and Jo can now live on in love! LOL JAJAJAJA (Spanish laugh)
Of course I made up some parts that didn't happen in the book so the explanation would fit all together (i.e. Fritz being toast, Beth writing Laurie the letter, etc).
Laurie and Jo fan fiction "Love From Afar"
The funnest part to write was definitely the dialogue because they talk so different than people do now. It was fun to exaggerate everything and make their sentences so proper.
For those who haven't read Little Women, here is a very quick background on Laurie and Jo:
Jo is one of four sisters, but she is a total tomboy (hence the nickname "Jo" instead of her full name Josephine). Laurie (short for Laurence) lives next door and is rich, but very lonely. One day, Jo and Laurie meet by chance at a party and from then on are totally inseperable. Laurie falls in love with Jo, but they never speak openly about it, still being best friends. Then, Jo thinks her younger sister, Beth, has feelings for Laurie so she leaves to New York to give Beth time to win Laurie's heart. There, she meets old Professor "Fritz" Bhaer. When she comes back, Laurie confesses his love for her, but she rejects him and he leaves to Europe to forget his heartache. Laurie reunites with Amy (Jo's youngest sister) and they marry. Jo ends up marrying Fritz and they name their son Teddy, after Jo's nickname for Laurie.
I think what makes the book so good is that it starts from when they're in high school all the way until they're married with kids.
I love this last part, when Lauries comes back to visit Jo and announces he and Amy are now husband and wife. He talks to Jo alone and once and for all clears up his feelings.
Laurie: "I could honestly share my heart between sister Jo and wife Amy, and love them both dearly. Will you believe it, and go back to the happy old times, when we first knew one another?"
Jo: "I'll believe it, with all my heart; but, Teddy, we can never be a boy and girl again--the happy old times can't come back, and we mustn't expect it. We are man and woman now, with sober work to do, for playtime is over, and we must give up frolicking. I'm sure you feel this; I see the change in you, and you'll find it in me; I shall miss my boy, but I shall love the man as much, and admire him more, because he means to be what I hoped he would..."
*tear*
I love fan fiction. It gives fans a chance to vent!
Back in high school, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that fan fiction existed. It gives fans the chance to make up their own realities (at least book realities) with characters already created, characters they love.
As for me, I rarely write a fan fic unless I'm pissed off. Usually it's because I want an ending to be different.
My first fan fic was about Final Fantasy VII. I was always an Aerith fan and was pissed when she died. Also, I didn't like that Cloud and Tifa got together instead. So, I wrote an alternate ending! One where Cloud was always in love with Aerith and they lived happily ever after with Tifa left in the dust. Nice!
Fast forward about 10 years and I've written a few more. I wrote "Love From Afar" about Laurie and Jo from Little Women. I read the book when I was little, but thought it was boring and didn't really understand what was so special about it. Then I read it again after I "grew up" (yikes, there are no adults after all) and really fell in love with it. It's definitely one of my favorite books, if not my favorite. What makes it good is that there are no gimmicks! It's just such a wonderful book about a family and their lives and relationships. Usually, I find those books boring. I like my books with a little mystery, magic, suspense, humor, or SOMETHING to keep me reading. My least favorite is actually drama/plain fiction. But the way Little Women is written is so spectacular. I guess because everyone can relate to Laurie and Jo. Their relationship is definitely the star in the novel.
So of course, like everyone else in the world, I was pissed when Laurie and Jo didn't get together in the end! They were made for each other! I haven't read Pride and Prejudice (or even the zombie version) and all those other great romantic novels, but I genuinely feel that Laurie and Jo's relationship is the most well-written, touching one of all. And so, it was time for me to play story God once again and change reality so I could sleep at night. Although, I do have to say that I like the fact they didn't end up together, otherwise readers would assume they lived happily ever after and never think about them again. This way, the frustration will haunt our thoughts forever. I think people like that in a strange, odd way.
So here is the fan fic for Laurie and Jo I posted on fanfiction.net. I wrote it really quickly in 2008 and I know the writing sucks. I should've taken more time with it and now I'm just too lazy to change it. But I like how I explained why they didn't end up together and I like the dialogue, which is what I tried to focus on the most. And best of all, Laurie and Jo can now live on in love! LOL JAJAJAJA (Spanish laugh)
Of course I made up some parts that didn't happen in the book so the explanation would fit all together (i.e. Fritz being toast, Beth writing Laurie the letter, etc).
Laurie and Jo fan fiction "Love From Afar"
The funnest part to write was definitely the dialogue because they talk so different than people do now. It was fun to exaggerate everything and make their sentences so proper.
For those who haven't read Little Women, here is a very quick background on Laurie and Jo:
Jo is one of four sisters, but she is a total tomboy (hence the nickname "Jo" instead of her full name Josephine). Laurie (short for Laurence) lives next door and is rich, but very lonely. One day, Jo and Laurie meet by chance at a party and from then on are totally inseperable. Laurie falls in love with Jo, but they never speak openly about it, still being best friends. Then, Jo thinks her younger sister, Beth, has feelings for Laurie so she leaves to New York to give Beth time to win Laurie's heart. There, she meets old Professor "Fritz" Bhaer. When she comes back, Laurie confesses his love for her, but she rejects him and he leaves to Europe to forget his heartache. Laurie reunites with Amy (Jo's youngest sister) and they marry. Jo ends up marrying Fritz and they name their son Teddy, after Jo's nickname for Laurie.
I think what makes the book so good is that it starts from when they're in high school all the way until they're married with kids.
I love this last part, when Lauries comes back to visit Jo and announces he and Amy are now husband and wife. He talks to Jo alone and once and for all clears up his feelings.
Laurie: "I could honestly share my heart between sister Jo and wife Amy, and love them both dearly. Will you believe it, and go back to the happy old times, when we first knew one another?"
Jo: "I'll believe it, with all my heart; but, Teddy, we can never be a boy and girl again--the happy old times can't come back, and we mustn't expect it. We are man and woman now, with sober work to do, for playtime is over, and we must give up frolicking. I'm sure you feel this; I see the change in you, and you'll find it in me; I shall miss my boy, but I shall love the man as much, and admire him more, because he means to be what I hoped he would..."
*tear*
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Edward vs. Jace
As you can tell by this post, I am huge dork. I spend way too much time in my head, intrigued by made-up characters. The type of things I do in my spare time... But oh well! It's fun for me!
I couldn't help but compare Jace Wayland (ugh, I hate his last name, but I love his first name esp. since it's the nickname I've had for years n years. And also, he has like 3 different last names) from The Mortal Instruments series to Edward Cullen from Twilight.
I couldn't help but compare Jace Wayland (ugh, I hate his last name, but I love his first name esp. since it's the nickname I've had for years n years. And also, he has like 3 different last names) from The Mortal Instruments series to Edward Cullen from Twilight.
Edward Cullen from Twilight
Jace Wayland from The Mortal Instruments series
(There's no movie yet, but this is how I imagine Jace would look)
Jace Wayland from The Mortal Instruments series
(There's no movie yet, but this is how I imagine Jace would look)
My vote is for JACE. And apparently, I'm not the only one who feels the same way:
http://www.youchoose.net/campaign/who_would_u_choose_edward_cullen_or_jace_wayland
Ah ha! So I'm not the only dork who thinks about this kinda stuff.
I don't usually prefer blondes, but I like Jace's personality way better. Edward is boring and one-dimensional. Also, he gets more serious with each book in the series. By the fourth book, he's just this overprotective guy who's totally not fun. And I don't like that he's so perfect... (rich, musical, good-looking, smart, never dated anyone besides Bella, hmmm... oh yeah, and BORING).
Jace, on the other hand, is so human which makes all his decisions that much more meaningful. He's also very complex and honest. A sweet, sensitive guy whose crazy father raised him to be a ruthless warrior--the eternal inner conflict of nature vs. nurture! As a result, he very honestly states he's only an ass because it's a defense mechanism. And though he's protective of Clary, he knows she's tough and can handle her own. And he dates and flirts with other girls, which is more realistic, making his love for Clary that much more significant. And he's not unbreakable like Edward. He gets beat up plenty, but he's bad ass enough to handle it.
Who would you vote for?
Vampire or part angel?
I say Team Jace, home slice.
http://www.youchoose.net/campaign/who_would_u_choose_edward_cullen_or_jace_wayland
Ah ha! So I'm not the only dork who thinks about this kinda stuff.
I don't usually prefer blondes, but I like Jace's personality way better. Edward is boring and one-dimensional. Also, he gets more serious with each book in the series. By the fourth book, he's just this overprotective guy who's totally not fun. And I don't like that he's so perfect... (rich, musical, good-looking, smart, never dated anyone besides Bella, hmmm... oh yeah, and BORING).
Jace, on the other hand, is so human which makes all his decisions that much more meaningful. He's also very complex and honest. A sweet, sensitive guy whose crazy father raised him to be a ruthless warrior--the eternal inner conflict of nature vs. nurture! As a result, he very honestly states he's only an ass because it's a defense mechanism. And though he's protective of Clary, he knows she's tough and can handle her own. And he dates and flirts with other girls, which is more realistic, making his love for Clary that much more significant. And he's not unbreakable like Edward. He gets beat up plenty, but he's bad ass enough to handle it.
Who would you vote for?
Vampire or part angel?
I say Team Jace, home slice.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Old, new, or inbetween, 5 songs I can't stop playing
This week, I feel like hanging out in imagination land. Okay, maybe that's everyday. But my song choices definitely do seem a little more emotional than usual.
1) Explosions in the Sky - "First Breath After Coma"
This song is just SO damn good. I enjoy instrumentals, but it's still very hard to come by one that I absolutely adore. I like all sorts of instrumentals, but what I like about Explosions in the Sky is that they create an entirely new genre. We all know the basics--orchestra, new age, electronic, nature, but Explosions in the Sky is none of those. And I also think "First Breath After Coma" is a very fitting title. If you don't like instrumentals, I think you should give this one a try. It's so full of beauty and inspiration. I want to make music like this one day.
2) Trading Yesterday - "Shattered"
The best song in the world! Okay, maybe I'm exaggerating, but it's at least the best song of the week. And it's also by the best band that never was. I guess Trading Yesterday left their label before releasing their debut album, which "Shattered" was on. So the sad part is, no more awesome band. But the good part is, all their MP3s are now online for free! But it's okay, they've formed a new band called The Age of Information and will continue in their awesomeness. I especially like the 2nd half of the song. The sound quality isn't the best though.
3) Tegan and Sara - "I know I know I know"
I'm not a huge fan of the whiny vocals, but once I got passed it, I really liked the song. It's catchy and cute and puts me in a good mood.
4) Flyleaf - "So I Thought"
Pretty pretty.
5) Black Kids - "I'm Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How to Dance With You"
This song also puts me in a good mood--it's just so happy! Although the lyrics are a bit weird: "You are the girl that I've been dreaming of ever since I was a little girl," sung by a DUDE. I discussed this with Chris and we figured the dude was once upon a time a lesbian girl who grew up and got a sex change. I think that works, right?
1) Explosions in the Sky - "First Breath After Coma"
This song is just SO damn good. I enjoy instrumentals, but it's still very hard to come by one that I absolutely adore. I like all sorts of instrumentals, but what I like about Explosions in the Sky is that they create an entirely new genre. We all know the basics--orchestra, new age, electronic, nature, but Explosions in the Sky is none of those. And I also think "First Breath After Coma" is a very fitting title. If you don't like instrumentals, I think you should give this one a try. It's so full of beauty and inspiration. I want to make music like this one day.
2) Trading Yesterday - "Shattered"
The best song in the world! Okay, maybe I'm exaggerating, but it's at least the best song of the week. And it's also by the best band that never was. I guess Trading Yesterday left their label before releasing their debut album, which "Shattered" was on. So the sad part is, no more awesome band. But the good part is, all their MP3s are now online for free! But it's okay, they've formed a new band called The Age of Information and will continue in their awesomeness. I especially like the 2nd half of the song. The sound quality isn't the best though.
3) Tegan and Sara - "I know I know I know"
I'm not a huge fan of the whiny vocals, but once I got passed it, I really liked the song. It's catchy and cute and puts me in a good mood.
4) Flyleaf - "So I Thought"
Pretty pretty.
5) Black Kids - "I'm Not Gonna Teach Your Boyfriend How to Dance With You"
This song also puts me in a good mood--it's just so happy! Although the lyrics are a bit weird: "You are the girl that I've been dreaming of ever since I was a little girl," sung by a DUDE. I discussed this with Chris and we figured the dude was once upon a time a lesbian girl who grew up and got a sex change. I think that works, right?
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Favorite Excerpt
Earlier I had posted about the short stories by Miranda July in her collection No One Belongs Here More Than You.
The post caused me to read a few of her stories over, reminding me once again why I loved them so much.
Here is one of my favorite excerpts. It's from the first short story, "The Shared Patio." The narrator works for a magazine called Positive about HIV which publishes articles that try to uplift the reader. She writes articles in hopes that it will be published, but her work is never uplifting enough. But then, at the end of the story, she finally gets the hang of it:
"Do you have doubts about life? Are you unsure if it is worth the trouble? Look at the sky: that is for you. Look at each person's face as you pass on the street: those faces are for you. And the street itself, and the ground under the street, and the ball of fire underneath the ground: all these things are for you. They are as much for you as they are for other people. Remember this when you wake up in the morning and think you have nothing. Stand up and face the east. Now praise the sky and praise the light within each person under the sky. It's okay to be unsure. But praise, praise, praise."
Well said.
The post caused me to read a few of her stories over, reminding me once again why I loved them so much.
Here is one of my favorite excerpts. It's from the first short story, "The Shared Patio." The narrator works for a magazine called Positive about HIV which publishes articles that try to uplift the reader. She writes articles in hopes that it will be published, but her work is never uplifting enough. But then, at the end of the story, she finally gets the hang of it:
"Do you have doubts about life? Are you unsure if it is worth the trouble? Look at the sky: that is for you. Look at each person's face as you pass on the street: those faces are for you. And the street itself, and the ground under the street, and the ball of fire underneath the ground: all these things are for you. They are as much for you as they are for other people. Remember this when you wake up in the morning and think you have nothing. Stand up and face the east. Now praise the sky and praise the light within each person under the sky. It's okay to be unsure. But praise, praise, praise."
Well said.
Music Hunters Alert! A new way to find great music.
This post is for the people who can't go a few days without an intense urge to download several new songs, who get excited when they have to drive somewhere because it gives them an opportunity to listen to music, who put on headphones and do nothing else but just listen, who play music in the background pretty much at all times, who can't live a day without listening to some type of melody--basically for people like me :)
It's hard to come by new music these days. So far, I have found 2 tried and true methods:
1) Find music buddies who share the same obsession with music that you do and make a pact to trade.
2) When buying/downloading songs, check out the "Customers who bought this artist also bought this..."
Unfortunately for me, my music collecting has slowed down quite a bit. It gets harder and harder to find new music that I like. Sometimes I only end up downloading less than a handful of songs a week, which is tough! I always like a good batch of 20 songs or more to keep me satisfied for a week or two, otherwise I'm just hungry for more. And my 2 methods have been completely sucked dry. First, I barely have any music buddies to begin with. And second, I hardly see them enough to trade. Then, for the "customers who bought this artist also bought this" trick, I think I've gone through just about every related artist there is.
I do subscribe to music magazines, but even those are a gamble; a lot of times the writers' tastes are pretty different than mine and I have to search each artist/song one by one for a sample on Amazon.com to see whether I like it. And sometimes when the clip is too short to tell, I go on Playlist.com and listen to the whole song just to make sure... Yeah, I'm pretty picky, but at $1.00 per song, I better be! Otherwise, I could easily spend hundreds of dollars a month buying up full albums.
Yeah, nobody ever said music hunting was easy. It's a real chore! But the end result is so worth it, which is why I do it. And now, I've just found a new way to music hunt and it's led me to a ton of new music so far.
And the trick is...
You Tube!
If you go on You Tube and look at "trailers" made by fans for books, movies, etc., they have some great music. The best part is they list the artist and song title for you right under the info, cutting out all of the work! I discovered this method by accident when I googled some info on Cassandra Clare, the author of The Mortal Instruments Trilogy (which I posted about earlier). There was a video for the City of Bones book trailer made by a fan. When I first watched it, I thought the fan had hired professional actors/actresses to play all the parts. Then I found out that she took scenes from about 8 different movies/tv series and did some creative editing which really reflected certain scenes in the book. I mean, it's pretty crazy--where the heck did she find a clip where a red-headed teenager and a brown-haired nerdy boy with glasses go to a club (Clary and Simon at club Pandemonium)? Or a handsome blonde boy (Jace) standing in a futuristic elevator (the Institute's elevator) talking to an elderly man (Hodge)? The only movie I recognized was 300, which made me realize how she had put the "trailer" together. But it was really well done and I have to commend her on a great job.
In fact, here is the link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8WcRsajHfY&feature=PlayList&p=C0A8372A7AA378BD&index=0&playnext=1
I think if you've read the book/series, you will see just how close the trailer is to the actual book. (A glowing sword!)
It turns out that lots of people throw together fake trailers and use awesome music in the background. Stuff I've never even heard of! So hopefully this will help some of you out there who have been struggling to find new music. Happy hunting, everyone!
It's hard to come by new music these days. So far, I have found 2 tried and true methods:
1) Find music buddies who share the same obsession with music that you do and make a pact to trade.
2) When buying/downloading songs, check out the "Customers who bought this artist also bought this..."
Unfortunately for me, my music collecting has slowed down quite a bit. It gets harder and harder to find new music that I like. Sometimes I only end up downloading less than a handful of songs a week, which is tough! I always like a good batch of 20 songs or more to keep me satisfied for a week or two, otherwise I'm just hungry for more. And my 2 methods have been completely sucked dry. First, I barely have any music buddies to begin with. And second, I hardly see them enough to trade. Then, for the "customers who bought this artist also bought this" trick, I think I've gone through just about every related artist there is.
I do subscribe to music magazines, but even those are a gamble; a lot of times the writers' tastes are pretty different than mine and I have to search each artist/song one by one for a sample on Amazon.com to see whether I like it. And sometimes when the clip is too short to tell, I go on Playlist.com and listen to the whole song just to make sure... Yeah, I'm pretty picky, but at $1.00 per song, I better be! Otherwise, I could easily spend hundreds of dollars a month buying up full albums.
Yeah, nobody ever said music hunting was easy. It's a real chore! But the end result is so worth it, which is why I do it. And now, I've just found a new way to music hunt and it's led me to a ton of new music so far.
And the trick is...
You Tube!
If you go on You Tube and look at "trailers" made by fans for books, movies, etc., they have some great music. The best part is they list the artist and song title for you right under the info, cutting out all of the work! I discovered this method by accident when I googled some info on Cassandra Clare, the author of The Mortal Instruments Trilogy (which I posted about earlier). There was a video for the City of Bones book trailer made by a fan. When I first watched it, I thought the fan had hired professional actors/actresses to play all the parts. Then I found out that she took scenes from about 8 different movies/tv series and did some creative editing which really reflected certain scenes in the book. I mean, it's pretty crazy--where the heck did she find a clip where a red-headed teenager and a brown-haired nerdy boy with glasses go to a club (Clary and Simon at club Pandemonium)? Or a handsome blonde boy (Jace) standing in a futuristic elevator (the Institute's elevator) talking to an elderly man (Hodge)? The only movie I recognized was 300, which made me realize how she had put the "trailer" together. But it was really well done and I have to commend her on a great job.
In fact, here is the link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8WcRsajHfY&feature=PlayList&p=C0A8372A7AA378BD&index=0&playnext=1
I think if you've read the book/series, you will see just how close the trailer is to the actual book. (A glowing sword!)
It turns out that lots of people throw together fake trailers and use awesome music in the background. Stuff I've never even heard of! So hopefully this will help some of you out there who have been struggling to find new music. Happy hunting, everyone!
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Short Stories
Short stories. I used to like them, then I hated them and I'll tell you why.
I'll start with the first part--I used to like them. I guess it was because they didn't take much time to read and usually had a whimsical edge because that's what you have to do when you write a short story; the author only has a few pages to impress the readers and make an impression. But to be honest, I never came across a short story I actually even liked or remembered. I just kept reading them, buying books full of them and even writing them myself.
So then comes the second part--I hated them. And I realized why. Because by the time you actually know the characters and remotely care what happens to them or understand where the plot is going, the story's over. Super anti-climactic. That's when I realized they were a waste of time, money, and energy and I stopped giving a crap. Although the occasional short story while taking a crap did prove to be somewhat enjoyable. Better than the back of a shampoo bottle.
Then one day, I was at the bookstore and saw a 2 for 1 deal. I came across No One Belongs Here More Than You by Miranda July. Initially, it was the bright fluorescent cover that caught my eye and I really liked the plain cover; simple and bold. But then my brain yelled, "Don't do it! It's a collection of short stories!" But of course, I didn't listen because the back of the book had blurbs of how great the stories were and it was enough to persuade me to open to the first page. I wasn't too impressed by the first story, although it did have some good moments (such as the dead whale part ^_^), but it was enough to make me buy it at a discount. And I'm sure glad I did. I read all of them in one sitting and absolutely fell in love with each story. I don't really know how Miranda July does it, but she made me like short stories once more, well, at least hers. I think it's the way she writes; not very typical, even somewhat "unprofessional" (no fancy words or flowery prose), but her unique writing voice brings her stories to life--a mixture of beauty, humor, bitter-sweetness, and little noticed yet unnoticed truths of life that would make Seinfeld proud.
I actually had it for a few years and almost forgot about it. But today, when I was cleaning out my bookshelf, I saw it sitting in the back and had an "aww, this book" moment. So I had to post it up and share. Beautiful, wonderful, all things good in the world.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Old, new, or inbetween, 5 songs I can't stop playing
This week, a tribute to summer!
These songs might be upbeat, even a little cheesy, but if they don't have you wishing you're cruising in a car down to the beach, you're not human!
Happy tunes, perfect for a beautiful sunny day...
1) "Kissing Your Lips" - Quietdrive
2) "Simple Life" - My Favorite Highway
3) "We Intertwined" - The Hush Sound
4) "That 70's Song" - The Cab
5) "Take It Home" - The White Tie Affair
These songs might be upbeat, even a little cheesy, but if they don't have you wishing you're cruising in a car down to the beach, you're not human!
Happy tunes, perfect for a beautiful sunny day...
1) "Kissing Your Lips" - Quietdrive
2) "Simple Life" - My Favorite Highway
3) "We Intertwined" - The Hush Sound
4) "That 70's Song" - The Cab
5) "Take It Home" - The White Tie Affair
Thursday, May 28, 2009
The Mortal Instruments Trilogy
Wait, before you take one glance at the young adult fantasy book cover and shun it away thinking, "Lame ass nerd!" in the back of your head, listen to what I have to say. This might be a long one, so if you need to take a crap, do it now...First of all, books are awesome. Perhaps one of the most awesome forms of entertainment in the olden days and the most awesomest awesome forms we still have today.
Nothing gives a sense of satisfaction like a good book.
Why?
Because books are awesome.
So awesome.
Okay, now let's get serious. Why books? Take a movie, for instance. I know everyone enjoys a good movie, right? Sometimes it's the emotions that get us, other times we're just searching for action or computer-generated eye candy, but the bottom line is, we want a good story. A story we'll remember even long after the credits have rolled and the lights have flicked on. And every now and then, we come across a few special movies that end up doing just that... and all after what? A few hours? Take the feeling of satisfaction from seeing a great movie and times it by a hundred--that's when you have a great book.
Besides a few narrated movies (and even then, the depth is not comparable to that of a book), the audience can never really tell what the characters are thinking, feeling inside. They can only draw on conclusions conveyed by either how a character acts or what he/she says. Sometimes, that very fact is what makes a movie good, but other times it can leave a cloud of confusion. But when you read a book, painstakingly turning each page, the words burn right off the paper and into your soul--okay, maybe not that intense, but you get the idea. :)
It's a very intimate journey, sometimes even a lonely one, but in a good way; a world where it's just you, the characters, and the story. The journey is longer than a movie, giving you ample time to really know the characters, almost being sucked into the story yourself, right alongside your favorite heroes or heroines. That indescribable feeling is very difficult, if not impossible, to get through any other means.
I guess that's a major reason why I've always been drawn to RPGs. I know I must sound like a major dork/nerd and belong at a Star Trek convention (although, with Star Trek remake, that might not seem like such a bad idea), but it's the countless hours (took me 60 hrs to beat FF VII) that makes it worthwhile. Almost as if you had to work for the fulfillment, giving you even GREATER fulfillment in return. Okay, I know it doesn't exactly make sense, but it's true... at least, for me.
I can also completely understand why people are turned off by books--high school ruined it for everyone, including myself. Maybe even before then. I'd say starting from junior high. Being forced to read all those boring books (Lord of the Flies anyone?) starts making you think, no believe, that all books are ever good for is collecting dust. But I can guarantee that anyone who has given reading a second chance has never looked back and knows how great it can be.
I also have to clear up a thing or two about young adult novels. I've read both adult and young adult novels and honestly, the only difference is the main character's age. The writing is not less professional, in fact, I even believe some young adult authors write better than adult fiction writers. Nor is the storyline less compelling, and often times, again, I find even more compelling than adult fiction. Too frequently, adult fiction tries to push boundaries, bring something new to the table, and in the process, certain qualities are lost and the novel never truly shines. However, young adult novels stay pretty true to the basics--creative plots, a bit of magic, good heart, great laughs, bravery, friendship, love, all the fundamentals of a great story.
On that note, try City of Bones (pictured up top), the first book in The Mortal Instruments trilogy. It's currently my favorite book, the kind you don't want to put down. It has definitely distracted me from studying for my CPA exam, forcing me to stay up to 9am on several occasions. I read all three books within a few days and I'm even tempted to read them again! Some parts are a bit similar to the novel I'm currently working on (like it will ever get published, but one can dream), but it's well worth recommending. If you haven't read in a while and you don't like fantasy books, I think it's something worth giving a shot--it might just change your mind.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Old, new, or inbetween, 5 songs I can't stop playing
This week, a tribute to romance... <3
There were too many good songs to choose from, so I was only able to narrow the list down to 6 instead of 5.
1) "Spiders" - Lovedrug (could only find the acoustic version on playlist.com, but it's just as good)
2) "A Twist in My Story" - Secondhand Serenade
3) "Button for Punishment" - Everybody Else
4) "Walking By" - Holiday Parade
5) "Darlin" - Between the Trees
6) "Giving It Away (Acoustic)" - Mae
Also, "Anywhere But Here" by Safety Suit is also a good song, but I couldn't find it on playlist.com =(
There were too many good songs to choose from, so I was only able to narrow the list down to 6 instead of 5.
1) "Spiders" - Lovedrug (could only find the acoustic version on playlist.com, but it's just as good)
2) "A Twist in My Story" - Secondhand Serenade
3) "Button for Punishment" - Everybody Else
4) "Walking By" - Holiday Parade
5) "Darlin" - Between the Trees
6) "Giving It Away (Acoustic)" - Mae
Also, "Anywhere But Here" by Safety Suit is also a good song, but I couldn't find it on playlist.com =(
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Old, new, or inbetween, 5 songs I can't stop playing
1) "Absolutely Still" - Better Than Ezra
2) "Go" - My Favorite Highway
3) "Night/Day" - Mae
4) "Where We Gonna Go From Here" - Mat Kearney
5) "Soft Shock" - Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Acoustic or Original, they're both good
The first 3 songs weren't on playlist.com, but the last 2 were...
2) "Go" - My Favorite Highway
3) "Night/Day" - Mae
4) "Where We Gonna Go From Here" - Mat Kearney
5) "Soft Shock" - Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Acoustic or Original, they're both good
The first 3 songs weren't on playlist.com, but the last 2 were...
Thursday, May 21, 2009
What to Watch...What to Watch
WHAT TO WATCH...
Of course, if you haven't seen it, you gotta watch STAR TREK.
This movie proves that typical movie elements do work and as much as we're drawn to artistic, artsy-fartsy, outside-the-box films, nothing beats a good ol' blockbuster.
What do I mean by typical?
Well, first we have the main character, James T. Kirk (never knew the "T" stood for Tiberius!) who is a young man with a penchant for danger, but no drive. Someone who likes to break rules, a little cocky, but has the ability to be a great leader if he only focused his energy.
Yeah, that isn't in every movie known to man.
But there's a reason why it is--because it's damn enjoyable!
Then welcome in the main supporting character, Spock, who is also very capable of leading, but has completely opposing views.
Not only will James have to defeat the bad guy who is screwing it up for everyone, but he also has to prove to Spock and crew that he is not just a goof-off and is, in fact, a great leader.
And let's not forget throwing in a smorgasbord of amusing side characters, a hot girl, a scorned enemy out to seek revenge, and a bag of great laughs.
Let's face it, these themes aren't groundbreaking material and it's nothing we haven't seen before.
But add it all together and what do you get?
The best movie of the year.
...WHAT TO WATCH
Okay, I saw two great movies recently, so I'm doing two "What to Watch" this week.
And the movie is... STATE OF PLAY.
The movie didn't do so well in the theaters. In fact, it's only grossed $36 million to date! What kind of world do we live in when Paul Blart: Mall Cop grosses $146 million and State of Play only gets a drop compared to that? *Sigh*... Although, I do like Kevin James, so I can see the appeal.
But if you haven't watched State of Play, you have to watch it. Think you've seen every thriller? You're wrong.
As an avid fan of mysteries, suspense, and thrillers, there comes a time when you feel you've seen just about every twist and turn stories have to offer. But, boy, was I wrong and very pleasantly surprised at the twist I had no idea was coming.
Not only that, but from the very first second of the movie all the way to the last, there is not one second where you are not completely engrossed. It was so entertaining, and the best part is when you come out of the theater, you feel SATISFIED.
That's a very rare feeling these days.
The story is smart with great performances and what I would dub "the perfect mystery/thriller."
Do yourself a favor and watch it.
Of course, if you haven't seen it, you gotta watch STAR TREK.
This movie proves that typical movie elements do work and as much as we're drawn to artistic, artsy-fartsy, outside-the-box films, nothing beats a good ol' blockbuster.
What do I mean by typical?
Well, first we have the main character, James T. Kirk (never knew the "T" stood for Tiberius!) who is a young man with a penchant for danger, but no drive. Someone who likes to break rules, a little cocky, but has the ability to be a great leader if he only focused his energy.
Yeah, that isn't in every movie known to man.
But there's a reason why it is--because it's damn enjoyable!
Then welcome in the main supporting character, Spock, who is also very capable of leading, but has completely opposing views.
Not only will James have to defeat the bad guy who is screwing it up for everyone, but he also has to prove to Spock and crew that he is not just a goof-off and is, in fact, a great leader.
And let's not forget throwing in a smorgasbord of amusing side characters, a hot girl, a scorned enemy out to seek revenge, and a bag of great laughs.
Let's face it, these themes aren't groundbreaking material and it's nothing we haven't seen before.
But add it all together and what do you get?
The best movie of the year.
...WHAT TO WATCH
Okay, I saw two great movies recently, so I'm doing two "What to Watch" this week.
And the movie is... STATE OF PLAY.
The movie didn't do so well in the theaters. In fact, it's only grossed $36 million to date! What kind of world do we live in when Paul Blart: Mall Cop grosses $146 million and State of Play only gets a drop compared to that? *Sigh*... Although, I do like Kevin James, so I can see the appeal.
But if you haven't watched State of Play, you have to watch it. Think you've seen every thriller? You're wrong.
As an avid fan of mysteries, suspense, and thrillers, there comes a time when you feel you've seen just about every twist and turn stories have to offer. But, boy, was I wrong and very pleasantly surprised at the twist I had no idea was coming.
Not only that, but from the very first second of the movie all the way to the last, there is not one second where you are not completely engrossed. It was so entertaining, and the best part is when you come out of the theater, you feel SATISFIED.
That's a very rare feeling these days.
The story is smart with great performances and what I would dub "the perfect mystery/thriller."
Do yourself a favor and watch it.
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